JMM Denounces Union Budget 2026-27 as 'Worst Budget' of Independent India
In a scathing critique, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), the lead ruling alliance partner in the state, has branded the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 as the "worst budget" of Independent India so far. The party expressed its disapproval through its official social media platform, highlighting what it perceives as severe shortcomings in the financial plan presented by the central government.
Strong Criticism from JMM and Alliance Partners
Writing on its official account, JMM stated emphatically: "Today's budget is the worst budget of Independent India. No solid increase in employment. No relief measures from inflation. No improvement in farmers' income. No justice in devolution of shares to the states. No concrete financial boost for tribal-majority states, farmers, youth, and the poor. This budget is not a document of development, but of 'deprivation'— weak in data and hollow in intent."
This harsh assessment was echoed by JMM's alliance partners, the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), who also voiced their dissatisfaction with the budget, accusing it of ignoring the specific needs and aspirations of Jharkhand.
Congress and RJD Voice Disappointment
State Congress president Keshav Mahto Kamlesh raised concerns about the budget's focus, remarking, "After going through the entire budget speech, it isn’t clear which section of society is the focal point. For whom has this budget been made and who will benefit from it, nobody could understand." He further criticized the exclusion of Jharkhand from the rare earth corridor, suggesting political bias, while Odisha was included due to its BJP-led government.
Kamlesh added, "The provision of fewer funds in the MSME sector will discourage medium and small industries. The agriculture sector has faced the most disappointment, as many hoped that the Kisan Samman Nidhi Fund would be increased and scores of exemptions would be announced. This is a completely disappointing budget for Jharkhand."
State RJD spokesperson Kailash Yadav went a step further, terming it the weakest budget ever. He claimed, "No concrete mission and vision were visible in the 2026 general budget. Everything is just a smokescreen."
BJP Defends Budget as Inclusive and Development-Oriented
In contrast, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) staunchly defended the budget, describing it as an "inclusive, development and employment-oriented" financial plan. State party president Aditya Sahu asserted, "The budget, focused on the poor farmers and women, will open many paths of possibilities. This budget also talks about developing basic facilities like railways, roads, health, and small cottage industries."
To bolster support for the budget, the state BJP organized a budget discussion program on Sunday at its office under the aegis of its economic cell. The budget speech, presented for the ninth consecutive time by Union Finance Minister Srimati Nirmala Sitharaman in the Parliament House, was heard in the dignified presence of the Leader of the Opposition in the assembly, Babulal Marandi.
NDA Constituent Ajsu-P Supports Budget Focus
Adding to the defense, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) constituent, Ajsu-P, maintained that the budget focused on social justice and security. Ajsu-P chief Sudesh Mahto stated, "It’s a step towards inclusive development and social justice as the budget prioritises empowerment of poor, farmers, middle class and small entrepreneurs, et al. It’s an important initiative towards creating a self-reliant India."
The divergent reactions underscore the deep political divisions over the Union Budget 2026-27, with ruling alliance partners in Jharkhand expressing strong disapproval while opposition and NDA allies rally in its support, highlighting the ongoing debate over its impact on the state and the nation.
